Set in 1970, the new season will have “a strong, overarching plot connecting the three films” and the three new interconnecting feature-length films “will test Endeavour’s moral compass to breaking point, both personally and professionally.”

Endeavour writer Russell Lewis, who has written ever episode of the popular crime drama, commented: “The prospect of Colin Dexter’s immortal creation entering a new decade is hugely exciting for all of #TeamEndeavour.

“We’re always looking to break new ground, and go places we haven’t been before – both physically and emotionally. The narrative design of this series gives us the opportunity to deliver a particularly distinctive story shape.

“Though each film can be enjoyed as a standalone – we have approached Endeavour 1970 as three panels of a triptych, or – in musical terms – a grand opera that unfolds across three acts. Whether it wears the mask of comedy or tragedy remains to be seen…”